The U.S. Supreme Court blocks the Biden White House mandate ordering COVID shots for employees of private companies. Kevin Gallagher gets some reaction…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Governor Edwards warns of a dangerous trend to intentional contract COVID. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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A new report shows the number of smokers in Louisiana at an all-time low. More on that from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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President Biden announced the administration is purchasing another 500-million home COVID tests in addition to the 500-million already ordered to assist with COVID testing.  Louisiana Senator and physician, Bill Cassidy says while he agrees with testing, the effort comes too late amid the Omicron surge.

Cut 4 (08) “…didn’t prioritize it.” 

The White House also plans to distribute high-quality masks at no cost and next week a website will be launched so Americans can order the free home COVID tests. It’s not clear when those free tests will be available, but Cassidy says home tests should be readily available now.

Cut 5 (08) “…tests now.”

Cassidy shared with reporters that his own wife told him she’s also unable to locate a home test.

Cut 6 (10) “…herself.”

To locate the nearest testing site call 2-1-1.

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Upon hearing of a trend to intentionally catch COVID so individuals can put the virus behind them, Governor Edwards alerted the public not to and says for some the Omicron variant has severe consequences.

Cut 7 (10) “…can’t do that.”

Edwards says the danger of exposing yourself on purpose to COVID increases the chances of overwhelming the healthcare delivery system. He says even the cases that are referred to as mild will make you feel sick.

Cut 8 (10) “…long time.”

Because the Omicron variant is the most highly transmissible form of COVID to date Edwards says if individuals deliberately infect themselves the outcome affects more than just that one person.

Cut 9 (12)  “…if that happens.”

As for a statewide mask mandate, Edwards says that would be dictated by COVID hospitalizations.

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New data shows the number of Louisianans who smoke cigarettes is at an all-time low. A report from the Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living says the percentage of adults who smoke is down to just over 18-percent; down from about 22-percent in 2019. TFL director Dr. Earl Benjamin Robinson says the crunching of data continues, but the numbers are welcome news…:

Cut 10 (07) “…contextualize that drop.”

The numbers come from TFL’s 2020 Behavioral Risk study. Demographically, the biggest group to quit smoking were adults without a high school diploma; a drop of over 6-percent. People in lower income households also quit at a high rate; indicating that additional tobacco taxes are having a chilling effect on the unhealthy habit. Dr. Robinson says the report is an indicator that TFLs efforts are paying off…:

Cut  11 (12)  “…second-hand smoke can do.”  

Robinson says Shreveport recently became the 30^th municipality in the state to enact a citywide smoking ban in all public buildings, bars, and casinos. He says the report is encouraging and inspires optimism…:

Cut 12 (11) “…individuals are protected.”

Robinson hopes to see an even lower number in the next study. For help kicking the tobacco habit, visit “QuitWithUsLA.org”.

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The U.S. Supreme Court has blocked the White House COVID vaccine mandate for private businesses. The Biden Administration sought to use the federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) to enforce shots for all companies with 100 or more workers. Six conservative justices voted for the block, while 3 liberal justices voted against. Loyola University law professor Dan Ciolino says he doesn’t see it as a purely partisan decision…:

Cut 13 (13) “…a democratic president.”

One person happy to hear the Supreme Court decision is businessman Brandon Trosclair, who owns supermarkets in Louisiana & Mississippi; employing about 500 people. He was among the first business owners to legally challenge the Biden/OSHA mandate. He says the High Court got this one right…:

Cut 14 (09)  “…just super-relieved.”

Trosclair says he is not against the idea of getting the vaccine but doesn’t need the government to intrude between him and his staff. Trosclair says whether his workers get the shot or not is their business, not his or anyone else’s…:

Cut 15 (06)  “…the vaccine itself.”

But the court ruled to uphold another mandate – the one demanding the shots for employees of health care providers who accept Medicare or Medicaid – by a 5-4 vote. Professor Ciolino feels the justices got this one right as well…:

Cut  16 (15) “…surely does have that.”

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Former LSU quarterback Joe Burrow makes his NFL playoff debut on Saturday when the Bengals host the Raiders to kick off the NFL’s Wildcard weekend. Burrow led Cincinnati to its first AFC North Championship since 2015 and is getting a lot of credit for Cincy’s turnaround. But Burrow says he’s playing with the best group of receivers in the NFL…

Cut 17 (21) “ .in the league” 

Former LSU wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase set an NFL record with most receiving yards for a rookie. Chase said after he was drafted that he would break records and says he meant it…

Cut 18 (11) “ ..playoff records” 

1991 was the last time the Bengals won a playoff game, but Burrow is not bothered by it…

Cut 19 (19)_“…try to do” 

A study by personal finance website WalletHub ranks our state among the worst in which to raise a family. Jeff Palermo has that…:

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Omicron variant has yet to peak in Louisiana and Governor Edwards says COVID is having a greater impact on children now. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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A new report from the personal finance website “WalletHub” ranks Louisiana among the worst states in which to raise a family. WalletHub data analyst Jill Gonzales says factors like health & safety, education, costs of child care, poverty, child mortality & more were considered…:

Cut 3 (07) “…raising a family.”

The WalletHub study compared all 50 states across 51 key socio-economic indicators of family-friendliness. Gonzales says Louisiana’s performance in these area are why it ranks Third Worst as a place to raise a family…:

Cut 4 (12) “…to zone in on.”

Gonzales says families should view the report if they are considering moving their family to the Bayou State for a job opportunity…:

Cut 5 (15) “…be a little bit better.”

To see the report, go to “WalletHub.com/edu”

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The state health department reports 2,081 COVID hospitalizations today; an increase of 82 from Wednesday. Governor John Bel Edwards says hospitalizations among children from the Omicron variant are also on the rise and he wantsd to dispel any rumors that COVID is not impacting children.

 Cut 6 (11) “…than Delta surge.” 

Edwards says some of those children admitted are between the ages of zero to four, which are not eligible to be vaccinated.

The state is also tracking COVID re-infections, Edwards says those cases are available on the Department of Health’s COVID Dashboard. LDH is also in the process of analyzing those cases and will soon share the percentage of reinfections among the unvaccinated.

Cut 7 (10) “…start of the pandemic.” 

According to the CDC, 60-percent of reinfections from September to December in the US are among the unvaccinated.

Edwards continues to remind the public of the importance of being fully vaccinated and boosted with the Omicron variant. He says statistics show that being inoculated is in your favor.

Cut 8 (11) “…to die.” 

Edwards also encouraged indoor masking to decrease COVID transmission in a concerted effort not to overwhelm the health care delivery system. When asked about reinstating the mask mandate Edwards says the topic will be discussed with hospital leaders next week at their weekly meetings.

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Central Louisiana authorities have arrested two people in connection with the kidnapping and murder of 27-year-old Deven Brooks. Ball Police Cheif Marshall Deen says Brooks was taken from his home earlier this week in Ball and his body was discovered two days later along the Red River…

Cut 9 (09) “…kidnapping”

Two people arrested for Brooks’ death are Terrance Lavalais and Jamaria Randle. Both are 21-years-old and from Alexandria. Deen says they believe Brooks knew one of the suspects, but they are not sure of an exact motive…

Cut 10 (12)  “…the murder”

Brooks’ body was found on Tuesday. Officers say he was shot in the head. Deen credits good collaboration with the Alexandria Police Department in making an arrest so quickly…

Cut  11 (12)  “…theres.”

Lavalais and Randle are both charged with second-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping. Bond has been set at 400-thousand dollars for each.

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A Lake Charles man and woman are arrested after detectives discovered one-million dollars’ worth of illegal narcotics in their possession. Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Tony Mancuso says the combined anti-drug task force arrested 43-year-old Caleb Barfield and 30-year-old Kimberly Breaux last week.

Cut 12 (11) “…that also.”  

Among the drugs seized were 170 grams of the synthetic opioid fentanyl, Lake Charles Police Chief Shawn Caldwell explains what a lethal dose of fentanyl is.

Cut 13 (10) “…rice worth of fentanyl.”

With the seizure of such a large amount of illegal drugs, both Mancuso and Caldwell credit the task force with saving numerous lives. Caldwell says the number of drug overdose deaths has doubled in the parish.

Cut 14 (11)  “…are OD-ing.” 

The two face a plethora of drug charges including intent to sell, possession of illegal firearms, and in the presence of a juvenile. Barfield’s bond was set at $803-thousand and Breaux’s at $59 thousand. She was released on bond Friday.

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The U.S. Supreme Court has blocked President Biden’s vaccine mandate on private businesses. The mandate would have required employees with over 100 workers to mandate the COVID vaccine or weekly testing. Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says today’s ruling rejects federal government overreach…

Cut 15 (06) “…this decision.” 

Cassidy he advises people to get the COVID vaccine, but….

Cut  16 (05) “..Supreme Court agrees”

Governor Edwards’ office announces help for homeowners set behind on mortgage payments because of the pandemic. Kevin Gallagher has that…:

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Louisiana has a combined $1.5 billion budget surplus from the last and current fiscal year with a $771 million increase in the next year’s projected revenue. Erik Piccoli has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Erik Piccoli.” 

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It’s time to put on your dancing shoes and show off your best moves and help Louisiana Public Broadcasting Save Mardi Gras. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The Governor’s Office announces a federally funded program to help homeowners who were set behind on their mortgage due to the pandemic. Louisiana Office of Community Development spokesperson Gina Campo says the state has received nearly $147-million to give out…:

Cut 4 (11) “…housing instability.” 

The Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Fund is bankrolled by the $10-Billion American Rescue Plan Act, of which Louisiana gets $147-million. Homeowners whose ability to pay their mortgage were hobbled by the COVID pandemic and lockdown must meet certain financial criteria to qualify for up to $25-thousand in mortgage assistance…:

Cut 5 (07) “…servicer or lender.”

Campo says about 3000 people have already applied, and applications will be processed with all due haste. She says one can easily get started online…:

Cut 6 (14) “…go ahead and sign up!”

URL: LAcovidhousing.com

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The Revenue Estimating Conference has officially recognized Louisiana has an additional $840 million dollars in revenues for the current year budget and an additional $765 million in the next year’s budget. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne described the state’s fiscal situation as stable and bright…

Cut 7 (13) “…surrounding the pandemic.”

Now that the REC has recognized an official forecast for next year, Dardenne can begin to craft a proposed budget to present to lawmakers ahead of the regular legislative session. He says having an extra 765-million dollars to spend will allow the state to fund major priorities…

Cut 8 (11) “…passed last year” 

The state will also have another 450-million dollar in surplus money to spend from the last fiscal year. Legislative leaders are expected to propose the money goes towards infrastructure projects and Dardenne says the governor has his own priorities…

Cut 9 (06)  “…campuses primarily”

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The most recent survey of small business owners indicates that 22-percent of mom and pop shops say inflation is the biggest issue they are facing, and the influx in prices has reached levels not seen since the early 80s. State NFIB Director Dawn McVea says inflation is increasing the cost of doing business.

Cut 10 (09) “…to the consumers.”

McVea says continued COVID woes and inflation are unfortunately causing more than 20-percent of small businesses are having to pass those costs along to consumers.

Cut  11 (10)  “…inflation impact.”  

The continued labor shortage is an issue for about half of small businesses. McVea says to combat the problem approximately 32-percent of mom and pop businesses say they will continue to raise wages to attract workers.

Cut 12 (07) “…top concerns.”

On a positive note, McVea says owners expecting better business conditions over the next six months, increased slightly by three points to a net negative 35-percent.

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Louisiana Public Broadcasting is on a mission to “Save Mardi Gras 2022.” The launch of LPB’s social media campaign is encouraging folks to get vaccinated in an effort to save carnival season. LPB Executive Producer Linda Midgett says all you have to do is watch their video, record yourself dancing and upload it to social media.

Cut 13 (11) “…do the dance.”

In addition to learning a fun dance, Midgett says LPB will most likely choose some of the best submissions, make a complication and air them. They’ll also be featured on their social media pages.

Cut 14 (08)  “…fun video.”

And it’s not just Mardi Gras LPB is trying to save by increasing vaccination rates. After the pandemic forced a majority of events and festivals to be canceled, Midgett says Louisianans are eager to celebrate together again.

Cut 15 (10)  “…around us.”

For more information visit LPB.org/SaveMardiGras

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Former LSU running back Kevin Faulk got teary-eyed talking about his election to the College Football Hall of Fame when he met with reporters in Baton Rouge. Faulk admits being inducted into the Hall of Fame means so much more after the death of his youngest daughter in September and then losing his job as running backs coach in December…

Cut  16 (12) “…like I said”

Faulk remains LSU’s all-time leading rusher and he still holds the record for All-purpose yards. After his standout career at LSU, Faulk went on to win three Super Bowls for the New England Patriots. Faulk says for a kid out of Carencro to accomplish all of that is amazing…

Cut 17 (22) “ …right direction”

Faulk served on the LSU coaching staff from 2018 to 2021. He annually hosts a free youth football camp and he’s founded the Kevin Faulk Foundation to support youth. He says after a difficult few months, he plans to spend more time with his family….

Cut 18 (14) “ ..for them” 

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The 12th ranked LSU men’s basketball team will try to win a game on the road at Florida tonight without senior point guard Xavier Pinson, who has an injured knee. That means sophomore guard Eric Gaines will have to step up and Coach Will Wade says he’s also counting on freshman Justice Williams…

Cut 19 (19)_“…in him” 

The six-foot-four Williams has only played in three games this season because of a foot injury. In LSU’s only other true road game, the Tigers suffered a 15-point loss at Auburn. They turned it over 17 times and Wade says they can’t do that again…

Cut 20 (18) “..extremely hard”  

The Saints are cleaning out their lockers today as New Orleans failed to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2016 season. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Sabine Parish community of Peason is recovering after an EF-2 tornado hit Sunday morning. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (30)…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”  

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New CDC guidance for those who received their two doses of the Pfizer vaccine, you are now encouraged to be boosted at five months out from your last dose, instead of six months. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says boosters are vital with the highly contagious Omicron variant.

Cut 3 (10) “…with Omicron.”

The CDC also recommends that everyone ages 12 and up should be boosted. Kanter the CDC added boosters to the younger age group for two reasons.

Cut 4 (09) “…Omiocron variant.”

Kanter says the CDC is also now highly recommending a third dose of the vaccine for those ages five to eleven if they are moderately or severely immunosuppressed.

Cut 5 (11) “…of vaccine.”

As with any vaccine Kanter recommends that you speak with your personal physician.

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For the first time since the 2016 season, the Saints are not playoff-bound. New Orleans beat Atlanta Sunday, but the 49ers come from behind win over the Rams keeps the Black and Gold out of the postseason, despite a winning record. Coach Sean Payton says it’s a disappointing end to a difficult season…

 Cut 6 (07) “…all season” 

After the Saints defeated the Falcons 30-20, they raced into the locker room to watch the conclusion of the Rams-49ers game, only to see San Francisco win in overtime. Safety Malcolm Jenkins says it was tough to watch…

Cut 7 (12) “…somebody else’s hands.” 

It was a trying season as the Saints spent the first month of the regular season re-located because of Hurricane Ida, suffered numerous injuries to key players, an NFL record 58 different starters, and used four quarterbacks. Saints defensive end Cam Jordan says it would have been an amazing story if they got into the playoffs…

Cut 8 (09) “…be with the family.” 

The Saints end the year with a 9-8 record.

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The Sabine Parish community of Peason is recovering after being hit early Sunday by a tornado. Sabine Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Brad Walker says the twister hit just before 5 a.m., when most people were still asleep in their beds…:

Cut 9 (11) “…registered as an EF-2.”

Walker says about 15 homes – some mobile homes and some houses – were severely damaged or even destroyed. A number of barns and other structures also took damage. He says, despite that, no one killed…:

Cut 10 (12)  “…to be expected.”

Peason is located on state highway 118, southeast of Many. Walker says cleanup is underway and rebuilding will begin once the power has been restored…:

Cut  11 (10)  “…may be a little longer.” 

Walker says the community came together to help one another after the disaster. Six people were hurt; a couple of them seriously injured … but Walker is grateful there were no fatalities.

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Lafayette Police say a Mardi Gras float reported stolen Saturday has been found. LPD spokesperson Sgt. Robin Green says the 40-foot long double-deck float was taken sometime Friday night from a Lucille Avenue address. She says even though the float has been found, they still want the person who took it…:

Cut 12 (11) “…please contact us.”  

The float was mostly decorated for parades and even bore signs from sponsors. It was located abandoned in a remote part of St. Martin Parish. She says the float had some moderate damage to the decorations and structure, and she feels for the owner…:

Cut 13 (07) “…up and running. “

Green says, despite finding the float, Lafayette Police still want to apprehend the person who stole it. She asks persons with information to call Lafayette P.D. of Lafayette Crimestoppers at 318-232-TIPS. She says someone HAS to know something…:

Cut 14 (07)  “…have been something.” 

Nearly 900 soldiers and airmen with the Louisiana National Guard are mobilized throughout the state in support of various Covid missions. Michelle Southern reports their work continues in 2022…

Cut 1 (30) “Michelle Southern reporting.”

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Real Reform of Louisiana is calling out the insurance commissioner and those who said auto insurance rates would drop after the passage of tort reform in 2020. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Louisiana’s public colleges make big changes to help assure students are not made victims of sexual misconduct. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 3 (38) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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The Louisiana National Guard is continuing to support Covid missions around the state in 2022, at the direction of Governor John Bel Edwards. Cindy Haygood is the Task Force Covid commander with LANG. She says the Omicron surge has led to a huge increase in test site demand throughout the state…:

Cut 4 (11) “out there” 

886 service members are currently supporting various Covid missions in Louisiana including providing food bank and warehouse support. Haygood says they are working at 28 vaccine sites and administering Covid tests at 31 sites…:

Cut 5 (11) “regions”

Haygood says guardsmen have administered more than 542,000 Covid tests, 206,300 vaccines since the start of the pandemic — and distributed over 42 million pounds of food. She says between the pandemic and hurricanes, many of these soldiers have been activated full-time for nearly 22 months…:

Cut 6 (09) “of this community”

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According to ValuePenguin’s State of Auto Insurance in 2022, Louisiana will see car insurance rate increase faster than the national average. Eric Holl with Real Reform Louisiana says despite a promise that tort reform measures passed in the 2020 legislative session would decrease rates, so far, they haven’t.

Cut 7 (12) “…in the country.”

When asked about the ValuePenguin’s report Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says he’s not familiar with them.

Cut 8 (12) “…they could know.” 

ValuePenguin is a personal finance website that researches insurance and other financial topics.

When the tort reform was debated in the 2020 session, Holl says there were claims passage would bring about a major reduction in auto insurance rates within a year.

Cut 9 (12)  “…would notice.”

Donelon counters that the bill contained no mandates for in a reduction of auto insurance premium costs.

Cut 10 (11) “…49 states.”

Donelon says the tort reforms measures passed were an effort to address the highest in America claims to litigation ratio that the state suffers from. Holl says policyholders now actually have fewer rights as a result of tort reform if they’re in a battle with their auto insurance carrier.

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Louisiana colleges and universities are making sweeping changes to their sexual misconduct policies after new state laws were passed last year. Higher Education Commissioner Kim Hunter Reed says one big change is that virtually ALL staff and faculty are now mandatory reporters, should they be aware of sexual harassment or assault…:

Cut  11 (06)  “…grounds for termination.”  

The 2021 legislature took action last year when LSU was found to have failed in addressing widespread sexual abuse complaints. Dr. Reed says since that time, there has been extensive training of employees on hearting such complaints and acting accordingly. She says 188 confidential advisors are now in place at Louisiana schools, to hear the complaints and report them up the line for appropriate action…:

Cut 12 (08) “…keep students safe.”

The new laws require agreements between campus officials and law enforcement to assure sexual abuse complaints are properly investigated. It also requires staff and faculty undergo training in properly handling such complaints. Dr. Reed says administrators will also be held responsible if complaints are ignored and “swept under the rug”…:

Cut 13 (10) “…can say “we did not know'”

Reed says the overall effect will be a safer and more secure environment in which to get an education.

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State Health Officer says it’s so important to wear face coverings to reduce transmission and because of the highly transmissible Omicron variant, you might want to rethink the type of mask you’re wearing. Kanter says while cloth masks help protect those around you…

Cut 14 (09)  “…KN95 masks.”

When the pandemic began it was extremely difficult to find face coverings. But over time Kanter says the N95 and KN95 masks are not as scarce as they once were.

Cut 15 (11)  “…them online.”

Kanter says he personally wears a KN95 mask because it’s more comfortable but either a KN95 or N95 mask provides equal protection.

Cut  16 (11) “…of them.”

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After dropping the SEC opener to Auburn, the 21st ranked LSU men’s basketball team is now 2-1 in league play after beating Kentucky and Tennessee last week. The Tigers knocked off the Volunteers in front of a sold out crowd on Saturday 79-67. Forward Darius Days says losing to Auburn turned into a good thing…

Cut 17 (17) “ …keep rolling.”

LSU is at Florida on Wednesday and they’ll host Arkansas on Saturday. Coach Will Wade says his team need to keep getting better…

Cut 18 (20) “ ..locked in .” 

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The Saints did their part but didn’t get the help they needed from the Rams who blew a 17-point lead against San Francisco and its the 49ers not New Orleans headed to the playoffs. After the Saints defeated the Falcons 30-20 they watched from the locker room to watch San Fran win in overtime in Los Angeles. Coach Sean Payton says they were pulling for the Rams hard…

Cut 19 (12“…would be” 

The Saints finish a crazy season with a 9-8 record. The regular season started with the team re-located in the Dallas area because of Hurricane Ida. The Black and Gold used an NFL record 58 starters because of injuries and COVID. And played four quarterbacks. For the second time this year Trevor Siemien had to replace an injured quarterback…

Cut 20 (24) “..proud of”  

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries lifts a baiting ban in Union and Morehouse Parishes after not finding chronic wasting disease in any of the local deer. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana argues its case against Biden Administration vaccine mandates before the U.S. Supreme Court. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (29)…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”  

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The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reports they found no evidence of chronic wasting disease in white-tailed deer samples taken in Morehouse and Union parishes. A baiting ban was issued in those parishes after cases were found in Arkansas. LDWF Biologist Director Scott Durham says the ban is now lifted.

Cut 3 (11) “…not detected.”

Durham says without the help of hunters who submitted deer samples they wouldn’t have been able to safely lift the baiting ban.

Cut 4 (11) “…help us in that.”

Hunters across the state are still encouraged to continue submitting deer samples to LDWF. Durham says CWD is an ongoing issue they consistently monitor.

Cut 5 (10) “…looking for.”

CWD has been detected in the bordering states of Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi.

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Approximately 30,000 homeowner policyholders in Louisiana of two insurance companies deemed to be insolvent will now have coverage under SafePoint Insurance. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says this is great news for those who had policies with Access Home or State National Fire for more than three years.

 Cut 6 (10) “…until renewal.” 

As policies come up for renewal, beginning in March 2022 they will be rewritten using SafePoint’s policy forms and rates.

Donelon says not only is it a win for the 30,000 policyholders but taxpayers also because otherwise, those policyholders could end up with taxpayer-funded Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance.

Cut 7 (11) “…December 1st.” 

Donelon says SafePoint will cover any insurance claims made on or after December 1^st. As for claims prior to December, particularly those from Ida…

Cut 8 (07) “…per claim.” 

For more information visit the Louisiana Department of Insurance’s website.

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Louisiana attorneys argued their case against White House COVID vaccine mandates before the U.S. Supreme Court today. Louisiana is among several states granted injunctions by lower courts to stop enforcement of the mandates. Via Zoom, state Solicitor General Liz Murrill says the Biden administration orders are a clear overreach…:

Cut 9 (15) “…a COVID shot.”

The White House is ordering the shots for all health care workers under the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Failure to comply could result in termination. Murrill argues that the orders will have negative un-intended consequences…:

Cut 10 (10)  “…millions of people.”

Lower courts have also blocked enforcement of White House orders that private companies with 100 or more workers have them vaccinated, or face fines under the federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). Arguing FOR the mandates was federal Deputy Solicitor General Brain Fletcher, who says the orders are wholly appropriate…:

Cut  11 (09)  “…Medicaid patients.” 

Louisiana lawyers say the mandates exceed the CMMS statutory authority and violate several federal statutes and will cost people their jobs. However, Fletcher says Health Secretary Xavier Becerra (ZAY-ve-er Buh SEH-ruh) heavily weighed the options and consequences before agreeing to the mandates…:

Cut 12 (15) “…a deadly pandemic.”  

A ruling by the Justices is forthcoming.

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The Louisiana Supreme Court has ruled hospitals can fire their employees if they do not receive a COVID vaccine. Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says Louisiana’s at-will employment laws give Ochsner Health or any other private employer the ability to fire a worker who refuses the COVID vaccine…

Cut 13 (10) “.. employees. “

Dozens of Ochsner employees filed the lawsuit after Ochsner Health announced its workers must get vaccinated or face possible termination.

The plaintiffs argued the state’s medical consent law gives adults the ability to refuse medical treatment. But Ciolino says the Supreme Court correctly determined the medical consent law only applies to the relationship between a health care provider and a patient…

Cut 14 (07)  “…Ochsner.” 

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It’s a must-win for the Saints on Sunday as they have to beat the Falcons and the 49ers also need to lose to the Rams in order for New Orleans to get the final spot in the NFC playoffs. Saints Coach Sean Payton doesn’t anticipate Atlanta will lie down and allow them to win…

Cut 15 (12) “…for success.” 

Saints running back Alvin Kamara says preparation for this Sunday’s game against the Dirty Birds looks good…

Cut  16 (15) “..locked in”

Today is the one-year anniversary of the storming of the U-S Capitol. Jeff Palermo reports on what members of Louisiana’s Congressional delegation said that day…

Cut 1 (40) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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It’s King’s Day and that means you can officially begin consuming King Cake. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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One year ago today, pro-Trump supporters stormed the U-S Capitol as Congress was set to certify Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election. Lawmakers were escorted out of the chambers. Here’s Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson describing the scene that day

Cut 3 (13) “…secure location.”

Senator Bill Cassidy took to social media as House and Senate members were escorted to a safe location and delivered this message…

Cut 4 (05) “…unamerican period.”

Later that night, Cassidy was the lone Republican member of Louisiana’s delegation who voted to certify presidential election results and later voted to convict the former President on charges that his actions led to the mob attack on the capitol.

On that day, Congressman Mike Johnson expressed concern about our country if the political rhetoric continues to keep pushing some Americans towards violence…

Cut 5 (10) “…in peril”

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Today is King’s Day, marking the official beginning of carnival season. It’s also the first day you can enjoy King Cake and be not chastised for it. David Haydel, Jr. co-owner of Haydel’s Bakery in New Orleans says they are already inundated with revelers ready to kick off Mardi Gras with their famous King Cakes.

 Cut 6 (06) “…all morning.” 

Haydel’s Bakery is known for sharing its award-winning pastry around the country and Haydel says the ovens are preheated and they’re prepped for the long haul until Fat Tuesday, March 1^st.

Cut 7 (11) “…good season.” 

There are a variety of the beloved pastry to choose from, some with fruit filling or even nuts but Haydel says there are two tried and true favorites they sell the most of…

Cut 8 (09) “…most of.” 

Haydel says their popular porcelain collectibles were delayed in shipping but should be available early next week.

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The Carnival season is officially underway with Krewe presidents for Zulu and Rex marking its start by celebrating Kings Day. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell says Mardi Gras 2022 will happen without a doubt…

Cut 9 (12) “…body’s as well”

Cantrell says current guildlines would remain in place but wouldn’t stop citizens from celebrating in true New Orleans fashion. Cantrell also praised the city’s high vaccination rate…

Cut 10 (09)  “…applause for that”

During the press conference, Cantrell honored the legacy of “Mr. Mardi Gras” Blaine Kern which lives on through Kern Studios and Mardi Gras World. Cantrell also took time to thank her co-chairs of the mayor’s Mardi Gras advisory…

Cut  11 (07)  “…move through it” 

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The Louisiana Health Department reported a single-day high of 14,077 new coronavirus cases and 12 new deaths today. Gov. John Bel Edwards says many of these new cases are re-infections…

Cut 12 (12) “…was 11,278″  

The CDC estimates for the month of December that 98.2% of all cases in our region are due to the Omicron variant. Edwards says that with the increased transmissibility there’s been a higher percent positivity…

Cut 13 (13) “….in one week. “

Because of how rapidly the omicron variant has taken over, Edwards says every Louisianan either has Covid-19, had it, or knows someone who does. The governor adds this surge has led to a less accurate representation of actual current cases…

Cut 14 (06)  “…it appears.” 

Today marks one year since the January 6^th riot at the U.S. Capitol that some say was an attempted insurrection. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Construction is underway in St. Bernard Parish on the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority-backed marsh creation project on Lake Borgne. Erik Piccoli has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Erik Piccoli.” 

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The oldest living World War II veteran and Norwood, Louisiana native passed away at the age of 112 on Tuesday. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Today marks one year since the riot at the U.S. Capitol building that some are calling an attempted insurrection. Louisiana U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy says the whole matter was sad and unfortunate, and it could have been avoided. He says inflammatory partisan rhetoric is largely to blame…:

Cut 4 (14) “… other person the enemy.” 

Five people died as a result of the sad incident a year ago, when a crowd of angry supporters of outgoing President Trump – unhappy over the election outcome – stormed the Capitol and tried to force entry into the House Chamber. Cassidy says Leftist partisan rhetoric contributed to the shooting of Congressman Steve Scalise in 2017. He says Democrats and Republicans on the Hill need to work together in good faith…:

Cut 5 (15) “…should not occur.”

District 6 Congressman Garret Graves says he’s disappointed the House committee investigating January 6^th is a mostly partisan panel, with only 2 GOP members…:

Cut 6 (12) “…political theater.”

Graves says partisan bickering over what happened a year ago and who is directly or indirectly responsible is counter-productive for the country and Congress…:

Cut 7 (11) “…North Korea and others.”

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Gov. John Bel Edwards has announced that construction has started on the Lake Borgne Marsh Creation Project in St. Bernard Parish. Deputy Executive Director for Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Greg Grandy says this is the largest marsh creation project that the state of Louisiana has ever undertaken…

Cut 8 (08) “…near Shell Beach.” 

The Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group outlined the plan in January of 2017 and is funded by dollars obtained following compensation for the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Grandy says the main piece of equipment used during the project is a cutter head dredge that will pick up sediment and transport it into the marshes…

Cut 9 (08)  “…back in those areas.”

The restoration will provide benefits to the risk reduction system around the greater New Orleans region. Grandy says that the project will also benefit the wetland ecosystem and fishermen…

Cut 10 (12) “…in and out.”

The project’s construction budget is $61 million.

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The Louisiana Department of Health says 90-percent of all COVID cases in the state are the Omicron variant. LSU Health Shreveport Infectious Disease specialist Dr. John Vanchiere  (van CHERRY) says their lab sequencing indicates a significant jump in northwest Louisiana…:

Cut  11 (12)  “…week prior.”  

Due to the highly transmissible variant and post-holiday surge in cases, Vanchiere says LSU Health Shreveport is testing on average 650 to 800 people a day…:

Cut 12 (08) “…community testing.”

Vanchiere stresses the importance of being fully vaccinated and boosted to reduce severe illness and hospitalization from the current variant…:

Cut 13 (08) “…easily spread.“

The CDC estimated the proportion of Omicron in the region that includes Louisiana, Arkansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas is 98-percent.

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Louisiana native Lawrence Brooks, the oldest living World War II veteran in the US, died Tuesday at the age of 112. Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana Morris Thompson fondly recounts his friendship with Brooks that began twelve years ago at a New Orleans fish fry.

Cut 14 (12)  “…want to know.”

One of 15 children, Brooks was raised in Norwood, Louisiana, and drafted at the age of 31, spending the majority of World War II in the predominantly African American 91^st Engineer Battalion. Thompson says Brooks claimed the key to longevity is to serve God and be nice to people.

Cut 15 (12)  “…remember him.”

Brooks spent the majority of his service in WWII stationed in Australia. In Jim Crow America however, Thompson says Brooks told him he was often treated better overseas than he was in his own country.

Cut  16 (10) “…in the army.”

Brooks is survived by five children, 13 grandchildren, and 32 great-grandchildren.

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After beginning Sun Belt play with two victories on the road, the Ragin Cajuns return home tonight to host Arkansas State tonight. U-L Lafayette Coach Bob Marlin says they want to build on what they accomplished last week…

Cut 17 (16) “ …front of us.”

The Red Wolves begin Georgia Southern in their lone Sun Belt game of the season and they are 10-and-3 overall. Marlin says A-S-U are led by Caleb Fields, Norchad Omier and a talented shooter by the name of Marquis Eaton, who had 32 points against the Cajuns in a game last February…

Cut 18 (16) “ …player inside” 

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The 13th ranked LSU women’s basketball team puts its 13 game winning streak on the line tonight when they host top-ranked South Carolina. Lady Tigers Coach Kim Mulkey says this is a tremendous challenge and opportunity for her squad…

Cut 19 (13) “…size to rebound” 

South Carolina is led by National Player of the Year Candidate Aliyah Boston, who is averaging 17 points and ten rebounds a game. Mulkey understands the excitement around this game, but it will not make or break their season…

Cut 20 (25) “..remain the same.”  

Governor Edwards gave a posthumous pardon to Homer  Plessy, the subject of the Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court case that ensconced a “separate, but equal” policy that enabled decades of segregation. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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LSU’s 42-20 loss to Kansas State in the Texas Bowl last night will be known as the Jontre Kirklin game, as the fifth-year senior started his first college game at quarterback. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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At a ceremony in New Orleans, Governor John Bel Edwards posthumously pardoned civil rights pioneer Homer Plessy, the subject of a separate but equal Supreme Court ruling that enabled decades of segregation of black Americans. Keith Plessy, a direct descendant, was on hand for today’s ceremony…

Cut 3 (10) “…to be born.”

Homer Plessy was a Creole man arrested in New Orleans 130 years ago when he refused to leave a whites-only railroad car. Plessy’s protest led to the 1896 ruling known as Plessy versus Ferguson, which said it was legal to have white-only spaces in public areas. Governor Edwards says unfortunately the negative effects of that ruling still linger…

Cut 4 (08) “…our country.”

The Supreme Court reversed segregation laws in 1954. Plessy died in 1921 with his conviction still on his record.

Edwards says this is Louisiana’s first pardon as a result of a 2006 state law that allows for pardons of people convicted under laws that were intended to discriminate…

Cut 5 (12) “…criminal conviction”

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A strange ending to the 2021 football season for the LSU Tigers last night as they only had 38 scholarship players available and it showed in a 42-20 loss to Kansas State in the Texas Bowl. Fifth-year senior Jontre Kirklin made his first start at quarterback and threw three touchdown passes…

 Cut 6 (12) “…whole journey” 

Kirklin was a standout quarterback at Lutcher High School but only played cornerback and wide receiver at LSU up until last night. Kirklin was a backup during his time and LSU, but he’s known as a hard worker and a team leader…

Cut 7 (10) “…here I am” 

Kirklin says he was calm heading into his first start at quarterback since 2016…

Cut 8 (11) “…win this game” 

Kirklin completed seven of his eleven pass attempts for 138 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions.

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Two children were tragically killed in a house fire early this morning in St. Landry Parish. Opelousas Fire Chief Charles Mason says they received a call shortly before 1:30 of a house fire where six people resided, only four escaped.

Cut 9 (06) “…and one eleven.”

Mason says the home in the 1900 block of Jake Drive was fully engulfed when eight firefighters responded to the scene. In addition to the two fatalities, another child was taken to the hospital.

Cut 10 (05)  “…smoke inhalation.”

The cause of the fire is unknown, and the State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating.  

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Jonesboro’s Fire Chief and a Jackson Parish Sheriff’s deputy face insurance fraud charges involving a two-vehicle crash of fire department vehicles. Trooper Michael Reichardt says State Police received a tip in August and found Chief Brandon Brown and Deputy George Wyatt were involved and listed as the drivers.

Cut  11 (10)  “…the vehicles.” 

The two men have been charged with insurance fraud, filing or maintaining false public records, and malfeasance in office. Reichardt credits LSP investigators for their diligent work in the case.

Cut 12 (07) “…jail now.”  

Reichardt says it appears the two men were trying to cover up the fact that Chief Brown’s juvenile son was one of the drivers at the time of the crash.

Cut 13 (12) “….drive those. “

The investigation remains active.

As kids return to the classroom, some systems are reinstating the use of face masks as COVID cases surge once again. Brooke Thorington has more from Louisiana’s Superintendent of Education.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana has surpassed 15-thousand COVID deaths since March 2020. Jeff Palermo reports on whether the rate of COVID deaths will slow…

Cut 2 (27)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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The school bell is ringing once again in Louisiana and with COVID cases back on the rise some school systems are reinstating mitigation practices. State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley says the decision about face masks is best made locally.

Cut 3 (10) “…their kids.”

Research indicates having students in the classroom is best for everyone and Brumley says systems should do all they can to do so as safely as possible.

Brumley says as long as there isn’t a statewide mask mandate the department’s stance on the issue is that it’s a local decision, and because parents are very impassioned about face masks on both sides of the issue, he recommends they reach out to local school leaders.

Cut 4 (07) “…for kids.”

When it comes to vaccines Brumley says he’s thankful they are available for the majority of school-age children now and he advises parents to discuss the matter with their healthcare provider.

Cut 5 (11) “…parent’s decision.”

In addition to COVID, Louisiana schools have had to adjust for hurricanes, winter storms, and flooding the past two school years and Brumley says through it all schools have managed to keep students in the classroom for the most part.

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The state is reporting 15-thousand COVID deaths since the pandemic started, but could we see fewer COVID deaths in the months ahead. Tulane Epidemiologist Doctor Susan Hassig says one hopeful sign is that the mortality rate with the Omicron verge does not seem to be as severe as it was with the Delta surge…

 Cut 6 (11) “…the virus” 

Hassig says the best way to prevent death from COVID is getting vaccinated and keeping up with the boosters, but that’s a concern in Louisiana, which has one of the nation’s lowest vaccination rates as 50-percent of the population has completed the vaccine series…

Cut 7 (12) “…more people vaccinated” 

Hassig says while its possible the rate of deaths from COVID may slow down, the concern remains about hospitals being inundated with sick COVID patients and not having the ability to properly treat other diseases…

Cut 8 (13) “…COVID there” 

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The first fire fatality in Louisiana for 2022 occurred Sunday night in West Monroe claiming the life of a 69-year-old man and his dog. State Fire Marshal Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says firefighters learned the occupant initially escaped the blaze but re-entered his home in an attempt to save his pet…

Cut 9 (12) “…your life for”

Firefighters located the man’s body in the living room and the remains of his dog in a bedroom. Rodrigue says investigators have not been able to pinpoint an actual cause but have determined where it started…

Cut 10 (06)  “…electrical in nature”

Official identification is still pending but it’s believed the victim is the tenant. Deputies didn’t locate working smoke alarms but Rodrigue says even with working fire alarms staying out is of the utmost importance…

Cut  11 (10)  “…and staying out” 

Families in need of a fire alarm can get help through the Operation Save-A-Life program which provides free fire alarm installation through local fire departments.

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A 15-year has been arrested and charged with 2^nd Degree Murder in connection with a New Year’s Eve fatal shooting in St. Landry Parish. Sheriff Bobby Guidroz says the victim has been identified as 38-year-old Keith Adam Joseph from Washington, Louisiana…

Cut 12 (10) “…once in the chest”  

Just before midnight Friday, deputies were dispatched to a Washington home. Guidroz says the juvenile fled the scene prior to their arrival…

Cut 13 (09) “….surrounding the incident. “

The teen was also charged with Juvenile in Possession of a Firearm.

Those with any information about the crime are urged to contact the St Landry Crime Stoppers by calling 948-TIPS. Guidroz says this is just another case in a larger issue…

Cut 14 (06)  “…it appears.” 

The investigation is still ongoing.